We are starting with a new Torah cycle and have paged back to Genesis. This year, my personal goal is to focus on uncovering the breadcrumbs in the Word that have been left for us to find our way back to Eden. Join me on this journey as we uncover one breadcrumb in each Torah portion.
Bereisheet begins by describing the creation of Eden, a paradise with a central tree / trees. This parallels the tree of life mentioned in Revelation, forming a complete framework. Each verse in between serves as a guide for our journey back to Eden, filled with impactful choices. It’s a flawless map, where the Author reveals His character and the boundaries and rules of His Kingdom. With gentle love, we are guided back home.
In this week’s Torah Portion, the first question asked is what caught my attention. In Genesis 3:9, our Creator asks Adam, “Where are you?” It’s not just a casual question about location. He didn’t ask for a location pin.
Our Creator’s character is multifaceted. He is a loving Father who asks a scared child a question. This child is hiding in shame because they have realized their mistake.
In these 3 words, there is a lot more. It captures a concern about unusual circumstances. Things are not as they should be. He is asking Adam a few questions, locked up in the 3 words. Why aren’t you here with Me? We should be walking together in the cool of the evening. Why aren’t you where you’re supposed to be, with Me, talking face to face?
Our Creator’s character of Grace is displayed. He is not accusing; He is not shaming. He is not asking the questions What did you do? Or why have you sinned?
Adam sinned by doing the one thing forbidden. We can all understand Adam’s perspective because we all sin and fall short of God’s glory. Our purpose is to work together to glorify God in His creation. To operate within the rules of His Kingdom.
Where are you? Would you answer with a location, or an apology?
Our answer to our Creator and Father should be Hineni, here I am, willing to do your will. Willing to turn back where I strayed and left the path. Willing to walk where You lead us, to go where you direct us.
Father , what would you have me do for you?
I recently read a news article that shed light on Genesis 3:9. The article was about a car accident where a mother knelt beside the wreckage of the car in which her child had tragically lost his life.
She was crying with emotion that filled the air : If I can only have one more conversation, one more hug, one more walk in the sunset. I have lost him and it will feel like forever until we are united again. She did not accuse with comments on bad or reckless driving. Just a yearning for a child lost. This is just a human picture that gives us a glimpse into the loving character of our Father.
Love is patient and kind. It is never envious or arrogant. It is never rude or self-centered. Love does not get annoyed or resentful. Love believes the best in all and has no limit to hope. Love never fails. Our Heavenly Father possesses these qualities, and He showed His love even when Adam sinned. He yearns to walk with Adam and witness Adam’s eyes reflecting His character as they converse face to face.
Have you read any books by Abraham Herschel? He’s my husband’s favorite author. He often treats me by reading passages from his books.
Herschel believes that man is both seeking God and being sought after by Him. Man looks for meaning because God is also searching for him. God asks, “Where are you?” to imply that there is a purpose for man. Are you aware that God is searching for you?
God’s question to Adam is His question to us.
Our search ends when we discover His search.
His search ends when we find ourselves in Him.
All to the glory of our Creator!
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